How many fatal accidents involve DUI?

Drunk driving is concerning for a number of reasons. Not only does this behavior reflect extreme irresponsibility, but it can also result in serious injuries or the loss of life. Sadly, many of the lives that have been lost due to motor vehicle collisions over the years happened because someone decided to take to the road after drinking. It is important for drivers to recognize how many of these fatalities are the result of drunk driving in order to avoid getting behind the wheel after drinking and watch out for other drivers who may be under the influence.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, roughly one out of every three traffic accident deaths in the U.S. involved a driver who is under the influence of alcohol. Moreover, 2017 saw more than 10,000 deaths due to traffic collisions which involved a driver who was operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. As concerning as these figures are, thousands of people will lose their lives in the future because of this behavior, and many more will sustain injuries.

If someone you love passed away in an accident that was caused by a drunk driver, or if you were hurt in such a crash, it is imperative to explore the different options that you may have. In the immediate wake of a drunk driving accident, you may feel unsure about how to handle the situation and what to do next. This is understandable, but you should not postpone litigation if you are considering legal action against a drunk driver who shattered your life.